Since the 1960s, artificial turf has been installed on sports fields across the nation, touted as a more durable and cost-effective alternative to grass. But now, there are increasing concerns that some synthetic fields are contaminated with lead and could pose a health hazard to children, athletes and others who use them.

New Jersey residents on Saturday were digging themselves out from a strong storm that authorities said had caused at least six traffic deaths. Just days after balmy temperatures covered the area, the wintry mix of snow and sleet caused hundreds of accidents and spinouts and led to airport delays and cancellations.

One lobster. One motivated student. That is what led Kimberly Waltmire from her second-grade classroom in southeastern Connecticut to Oprah Winfrey's TV show. Colleagues and students say Waltmire's energetic and creative lessons transcend her classroom's walls.

Workers in industries that might seem far less dangerous than coal mining? couriers and baggage handlers among them? stand an even greater risk of suffering debilitating injuries that keep them out of work or land them in hospitals.